Distribution and ecology of the genus Kennedya Vent. in Western Australia

Abstract

A review of the taxonomy, ecology, and distribution pattern of 11 species of the genus Kennedya Vent. in relation to the soils and climate of Western Australia is presented. Within a single climatic zone the edaphic factor is shown to be the most important, but it is also shown that "growingperiod" calculated from P/E_w^0.75 values can be useful in delineating the climatic requirements of some endemic species. Variability and distribution are discussed in relation to the above factors, the occurrence of self-fertilization, and the influence of previous climates.